Graduating Class Increases Number
of Firefighters Hired Since 9/11 to 2,700

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Fire Commissioner
Nicholas Scoppetta today presided over a graduation ceremony
for 286 Probationary Firefighters. The new Firefighters, or
“Probies,” have successfully completed the rigorous
12-week training program at the FDNY Training Academy located
on Randall’s Island. Today’s class increases the
number of firefighters hired since September 11, 2001 to 2,700.
Among the graduates are two brothers and one female. Today’s
Probie class also has a 15% minority representation. Several
hundred friends and family members joined the Mayor and Commissioner
to congratulate the first class of 2004 at the ceremony held
at Brooklyn College.

“Every day, the Fire Department grows stronger,”
said Mayor Bloomberg. “On September 11, 2001 the FDNY
met its greatest challenge, evacuating 25,000 people from
the World Trade Center with the courage and professionalism
that won admiration from people around the world. We honor
the 343 men we lost that day by keeping the ranks of the FDNY
strong and ensuring that our firefighters have the resources
necessary to continue to protect the residents of this great
City. I congratulate our newest firefighters on becoming New
York’s Bravest. I welcome you to a great family and
I thank you for answering the call of duty.”

“Congratulations to all of today’s graduates.
You have successfully completed the first step in your careers
as firefighters and join the ranks of those proud to wear
the uniform,” said Commissioner Scoppetta. “As
you enter the ranks of the Bravest, you take with you the
foundation that was built by your instructors at the Fire
Academy. Throughout your careers, you will fall back on that
training and you will pass that knowledge on to others that
come after you. Train everyday and the learning process never
ends. Today is only the start of something incredibly special.
Serve the people of New York well.”

While in training at the Fire Academy, the “Probies”
learned firefighting techniques such as basic engine and truck
operations, fire suppression and containment, hazardous materials
training, and terrorism awareness. The “Probies”
will now be assigned to firehouses throughout the City, where
they will gain field experience under the guidance of senior
firefighters and officers. In keeping with tradition, the
class-donated money to a number of FDNY related charities,
including the Firefighter Thomas Brick Memorial Fund.

Probationary Firefighter Jon-Michael Sommeso earned the honor
of today’s class Valedictorian, and Probationary Firefighter
James J. Denn was the class Salutatorian. The Physical Fitness
Award was given to Probationary Firefighter Jonathan E. Summers.